Cherokee citizen drafted to play for Tulsa Shock

Cherokee Nation citizen Angel Goodrich became the hightest drafted Native American in WNBA history when the Tulsa Shock selected her as the 29th overall pick. (Photo courtesy University of Kansas.)

The highest drafted Cherokee in WNBA history, Angel Goodrich, says she’s excited to return home to Oklahoma to play for the Tulsa Shock.

The Sequoyah High product and current University of Kansas point guard was drafted April 15 in the third round as the 29th pick overall. Goodrich, who grew up in the Adair County community of Greasy, couldn’t be more pleased.

“After everything I’ve gone through, with many obstacles and adversity, it’s truly a blessing,” Goodrich said. “It means a lot to be close to home. My folks are excited and I’m excited. Just the thought of having the opportunity to play in front of many family and friends again is exciting.”

Goodrich averaged 14 points per game and nearly seven assists in her senior season and capped off her career at Kansas with consecutive Sweet 16 runs in the NCAA tournament. She ended her career as the all-time leader in assists at Kansas and holds the Big 12 Conference record for most assists in a season.

The Shock begin their season with a road game at Atlanta on May 25. The first home game of the season will be May 27 against the Washington Mystics.